In 2397, Kevratas declared independence from the Empire over Taris' refusal to provide relief supplies during a bloodfire epidemic the previous year. Taris ordered Tebok to put down the rebellion by force, but Tebok defied the order and negotiated a peace settlement with the Kevratans, ordering humanitarian aid be delivered immediately, and ferrying Kito and other Kevratan leaders to Rator III to make their case to the Romulan Senate in Nova Roma. Taris ordered Tebok to resign his commission for his insubordination, but the Senate overruled her.

In 2398 Tebok named Velal second-in-command of the Romulan fleet, which was seen as a deliberate snub to Taris given Velal's politics.